Studies have shown that the average woman carries a handbag weighing five to nine pounds. And when you're pregnant, that pretty purse weight usually increases rather than decreases. You add a baby naming book, a list of baby items to shop for and that sample bottle of prenatal vitamins that your doctor gave you. The problem with that hefty handbag: it can exacerbate your already aching back and shoulders! The solution is to lighten that load with one of these tips:

Relax in the most comfortable chair in your home, put a TV tray in front of you and remove everything from your purse. Those pennies that you tossed into the bottom of your purse, the throat lozenges, the free pens from the bank manager, the credit card holder crammed with cards (half of which probably you no longer use!), the value shopper cards from various supermarkets and drug stores -- set it all out. Ask yourself what REALLY needs to stay. The pennies can go into your piggy bank for a rainy day. Those pens belong in your desk. And those value shopper cards? Request to use your phone number rather than a plastic card and shred those cards along with the expired credit cards.

Next up, let your fingers do the shopping online for a much smaller purse. A small, attractive purse will keep you focused on the goal: keeping your handbag as light as possible. For example, consider the highly rated Jessica McClintock Large Satin Clutch, in the cutest, most cheerful colors like pearl pink. It's easy to access, and lovely to look at! It's convertible, with a chain, and even has room for your credit cards.

How about a drawstring purse? Tuck away all those essentials with a lightweight drawstring that holds what you need. You won't get in a flap about a flap purse, sometimes referred to as a tote bag. Often made of lightweight canvas, this style of purse is made for convenience such as the Kavu Tortola Tote Bag, which has a separator to keep you organized.

Shopping for shoes can be such a joy. So many styles, so many cute colors, and oh, look at those pumps. When you're pregnant, though, it is NOT the time to invest in those sleek shoes with stiletto heels. Do you love those socks with the embroidered puppies and kittens on them? Well, yes, they're adorable ... but just how soft are they?

Here's what to do to provide TLC (Tender Loving Care!) for your precious feet:
Choose shoes for their comfort level not their cuteness. The best time for shoe-shopping: mid to late afternoon. Your feet swell as the day goes on, and by that point in the day, you'll be able to ensure that you buy shoes that are large enough. Look for low or no heeled shoes and make sure that the tread is secure. Consider looking in the athletic section for walking shoes, which typically offer better support than the average woman's shoe. For example, consider New Balance's top-rated walking shoes, such as the 622.

Sock it to your feet ... with the softest ones that you can find! Look for socks that are described as designed for comfort. And be sure that the material wicks moisture to avoid that nasty "my feet are perspiring" feeling.

When you're home, consider switching to cozy slippers that soothe your feet. For example, Brampton by Crabtree & Evelyn is made of the softest faux suede, with full padding, which are highly rated by customers, and the ribbon lacing and bow on these slippers make it fun to wear!

Two words: foot massage. Treat yourself to an occasional foot massage at a day spa. Be sure to tell them that you are pregnant and ask them to use lotion that is for sensitive skin. In addition, next time your husband asks if there's anything he can do for you, smile, hold up a bottle of massage lotion and prop your feet in his lap. Motto: togetherness means caring for each other's tootsies!

You've chosen the perfect baby names. Your husband agrees with you on the ideal color for the baby's room, and your best friend gave you a baby shower that celebrities would envy. (Those designer baby clothes are so cute that you daydream about handing them down to your own pregnant daughter someday in the distant, distant future.)

Looking for the perfect (or even tolerable!) *maternity attire*? We've got you covered with our maternity clothing B.A.B.Y. tips:

B is for basics. Take the time to try on the loveliest lingerie, from sky blue bras to pale pink panties. For example, take a look at the Bao Bei Maternity Racer Back Sports Bra, which is perfect for that prenatal yoga class you signed up for.

A is for attitude. You say you wish that you dared to wear a tank top? Then go for it! Remember, you're a mother-to-be, and you deserve whatever you want, from a dill pickle next to your hot fudge sundae to a maternity tank top sparkling with glitter.

B is for blue, pink or fire engine red. Just because it's in the maternity department does NOT mean it has to be a pale color. Remember that attitude!

Y is for YES. You know that feeling when you've found something to wear that you love? Well, you can find those I-love-it clothing choices when you're pregnant, too. Just take your time, have a nice lunch before you shop and go with a friend. Or let your fingers do the shopping online. For a sample of the luscious lovelies you can find at online stores, check out this adorable fake fur cape by Maternal America.